Monday Must-Haves: Summer Allergies

It's easy to ignore sickness in the summer -- after all, warm weather, open spaces, and fresh air do a lot to keep you active and safe from germs. But allergies are around all year, and summer can sometimes be just as bad as spring or fall for those who suffer from allergies. 50 million Americans have seasonal allergies, so don't ignore yours during the summer! Read on for some of our most effective allergy relief products.

The biggest source of allergic reactions in the summer is pollen, much like in spring. Ragweed and other grasses and plants are still releasing tons of pollen in summer. When we breathe it in, our immune system sees pollen as dangerous and releases antibodies called histamines to attack. Allergic symptoms are largely our bodies' way of jettisoning foreign particles. But when those particles are unavoidable, like pollen, you'll want an antihistamine to shut down the reaction itself. Loratdaine Allergy Tablets give you 24 hours of relief from sneezing, coughing, runny noses, and watery eyes, without putting you to sleep like other antihistamines. When you want to enjoy the springtime and breathe easier, choose Loratadine 24-Hour Allergy Relief.

We know that one's hard to remember, but it's the generic formulation of the drug popularly known as Nasacort. It's a corticosteroid typically used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergy symptoms that cause sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, and itchy or runny nose. Taken in the form of a nasal spray, daily use will reduce inflammation in the nostrils. Allergies can occur year-round, and during summer they can be particularly hard to escape. When you need a respite from disruptive sneezing and painful sinus pressure, Perrigo's nasal spray will give you 24-hour relief.

Allergies don't just mean sneezing or coughing from pollen in the air. The "poison" plants (poison ivy, oak, and sumac) secrete an oil called urushiol that causes allergic contact dermatitis. Exposure to these plants can cause painful, itchy rashes, and when that happens, you'll want fast relief. Within an hour, Taro's Diphenhydramine Itch Relief Cream blocks the histamines that cause an itchy, allergic reaction. It contains zinc for a protective barrier for healing skin and it also relieves itching from burns, cuts, and other sources. Available in a convenient, portable, 1 oz. tube, this is the perfect option for hikers, campers, and anyone spending time outdoors this summer!

Poison plants aren't the only danger to your skin in the summer -- anyone who's spent time outside knows how irritating insect bites can be. Perrigo's Hydrocortisone Lotion 2.5% is an anti-inflammatory lotion that is used to treat inflammation of the skin from allergic reactions, eczema, or psoriasis. Hydrocortisone lotion relieves itching and irritation almost immediately and moisturizes your skin when it's applied, making it ideal for anyone suffering from inflammation due to insect bites or poison plants!

You can't always avoid allergens like ragweed and you might not spot poison ivy in time, but you can deter insects before they bite. Safetec Insect Repellant is a non-toxic, chemical free, pesticide free repellent that uses natural citronella and soybean oil to drive off insects. It contains no DEET, and is perfect for adults or children with sensitive skin. Available in a convenient, portable, 2 oz. bottle, this is the perfect option for hikers, campers, and anyone spending time outdoors this summer!